The reason why Usman Khawaja didn’t open for Australia on Day 1 of Ashes 2025-26 Test against England
Khawaja’s absence from the field during the closing stages of England’s innings has led to a last-minute reshuffle of Australia’s batting order. Khawaja, who was off the field for almost half an hour, could not return in time to meet the requirement of being on the field for a minimum of 23 minutes before taking his position as opener. This delay was due to a stomach problem that prevented Khawaja from fully recovering in time for his usual role at the top.
With the team having to act quickly when England’s wickets tumbled, it was clear that Khawaja would not be able to return in time. As a result Marnus Labuschagne was given the task of filling out the order together with the debutant at the top Jake Weatherald. While the move is a temporary adjustment, it has shaken up the carefully planned batting lineup. Khawaja will have to wait for his turn to bat once the mandatory time on the field is reached, leaving Labuschagne to take the crucial position in the first innings for now.
If you’re wondering why Usman didn’t open Khawaja, it was off the ground too long, so it was sent back to order. And a rule requiring him to wait ten minutes before walking out meant he wasn’t allowed to bat at three when Weatherald was dismissed at second… pic.twitter.com/D2rmJGFZXR
— ABC SPORT (@abcsport) November 21, 2025
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Ashes 2025-2026: Australia’s steady response to England’s collapse on Day 1 of the Perth Test
Australia found themselves in the midst of a tough chase after England were bowled out for 172 in just 32.5 overs. Despite the early loss of Weatherald, who was dismissed by a duck Jofra SagittariusAustralia’s response began cautiously. Of Marnus Labuschagne (4 of 23) and captain Steven Smith (3 off 22) at the crease, the hosts wanted to rebuild slowly and take their time on a pitch that had proven difficult for both sides.
England’s collapse left Australia trailing by 164 runs when the team reached the crease to start their innings. The conditions, which had caused England’s downfall, continued to provide aid to the bowlers, with Archer and Atkinson both taking movement from the field. Archer struck early, trapping Weatherald lbw for a duck, sending the Australian openers back to the drawing board. Despite the early pressure, Labuschagne and Smith showed signs of resilience. Although neither player scored at a rapid pace, they kept their wickets in place and aimed for a steadier start to what could be a long innings. The lack of runs meant Australia got off to a slow start, with just 8 runs on the board after 8 overs, but the longer they stayed at the crease, the more comfortable they would feel in what promises to be an exciting Test match.
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